9 Tips and Tricks To Make Your Home Decor Last Longer
August 6, 2020After all the time, effort, and money you spent on decorating and creating your dream home, you’d think that all you have left to do is to admire and enjoy your work. The thing is having your dream home goes beyond just creating it. You also have to maintain it. Why waste all that decor that you’ve taken the painstaking time and effort to plan out, right?
These past few months, you might’ve noticed that your home has taken a bit of a beating especially since you’ve been spending more time in. Certain things might be looking a little worn. But you don’t need to worry. We’ve got some tips and tricks here to help you make your home decor last longer. And don’t worry, there won’t be any of that plastic couch cover nonsense here.
1. Avoid Disposable Furniture
The first rule to long-lasting decor is to invest in quality furniture that can last you years and not merely months. Unlike those easily damaged disposable furniture, quality furniture can get you through any mess or moves. Even if you have small kids running around, there are plenty of antiques that can last and survive until your kids have their own kids. The best part is that you won’t be tossing out damaged furniture every now and then and you won’t have to keep robbing your bank of unnecessary costs just to replace it.
2. Pick Quality Paint
If you want your rooms to age gracefully, don’t cheap out on your paint. Choose the right, high-quality paint that won’t crack or peel after one wet season. A good factor to keep an eye out for is the sheen of the paint. The more sheen it has, the easier it is to clean and the more it can withstand moisture.
3. Choose the Best Quality Upholstery
When it comes to upholstery, lead with your practical needs. Consider who’ll be using the piece and how you live. You might love the look and feel of silk velvet but a few pulls and tugs from your pets or kids can easily destroy it. Also, remember that high traffic areas like your living room would need more durable fabrics. Some great upholstery materials for such concerns include faux suede, distressed leather, or heavy-weight linen. Stay away from delicate or textured options like silk.
Aside from all that, don’t forget to ask yourself “How will this look in five years?” Ask questions, check the label, and find out everything about its cleaning needs so you’ll know what you need to maintain and protect its quality.
4. Protect Your Upholstery
A little sunlight won’t hurt anybody. Unfortunately, too much sunlight will cause your upholstery to fade. So whenever you’re not using the room or you’re not at home, better close the curtains or blinds.
5. Use Outdoor Fabrics Inside
Outdoor fabrics are more versatile than you think. And for high-traffic areas in your home, these would be the best choice. They can survive all the beating and they feel just like regular upholstery. There are also plenty of beautiful options that would fit any style for your indoor decor.
6. Opt for Washable Covers
Much like choosing your upholstery, let practicality lead the way for your fabric choices. Make sure that they’re appropriate for your real life and can withstand whatever your lifestyle throws at it. You don’t want to be wasting money on something that can easily be ruined by a spilled cup of cereal or coffee, right? An additional tip would be to opt for washable covers in dark hues. Light-colored fabrics show dirt and stains faster plus they’re harder to launder back to their old appearance.
7. Take Care of Your Floors
IHardwood floors are especially prone to scratches. One pull of a chair can already cause an unsightly scratch. To avoid these, consider equipping your furniture with heavy-duty felt furniture pads. Secure them with a screw nail to prevent them from becoming unstuck.
8. Make the Right Rug Choices
Your lifestyle plays a big role in choosing your rugs. If you expect a lot of wear and tear, a flat weave rug or an indoor/ outdoor carpeting can do the trick. If you’re particular about stains, opt for wool construction in a pattern that can easily disguise dirt or stains. You can also go for fabulous reversible wool kilims. If you have children or pets, it’s probably best to stay away from light-colored rugs with a high pile. On the other hand, if you don’t have either to worry about and you’re after comfort and luxury, something soft with a high pile would be perfect.
9. Make Your Rugs Last
Aside from considering your lifestyle, also consider just how much work you’re willing to put into your maintaining your rugs. Some rugs may need regular vacuuming while some may need the regular old-fashioned beating. Don’t skip the rug pads as well for added caution and durability.
